Moving or purchasing new household appliances often confronts the owner with a difficult choice: how to deliver a large unit to its destination if it does not fit in an elevator or car body in vertical position. The question of whether it can be transported LG refrigerator lying down is one of the most discussed among craftsmen and users, since the further performance of the device depends on the answer. The horizontal position creates critical loads on the cooling system, which can be fatal for expensive equipment.
Modern models, such as LG DoorCooling+ or series Smart Inverter, are equipped with complex compressors and a refrigerant circulation system that are sensitive to improper transportation. Oil from the compressor at inclinations above 40 degrees may leak into the circuit, which will lead to water hammer upon first start-up. That is why it is important to strictly follow the rules of preparation and subsequent settlement techniques.
In this article we will analyze the technical nuances that will help you deliver the unit without damage. You will learn which side is best to place the device on, how to pack it correctly and how long it will take to restore normal operation after transportation in a horizontal position.
Risks of horizontal transportation for LG equipment
The main danger when transporting a refrigerator in a prone position is the disruption of circulation refrigerant and lubricating oil. The compressor, located at the bottom of the unit, contains oil necessary to lubricate the rubbing parts. If there is a strong tilt or horizontal position, this liquid may flow into the heat exchanger or capillary tube.
⚠️ Attention: If you start the compressor immediately after transporting it lying down, the oil may create a hydraulic lock. The pressure in the system will increase sharply, which will lead to rupture of tubes or burning of the motor winding.
In addition, in models LG InstaView and other series with glass panels, horizontal transportation creates the risk of microcracks on the doors or housing due to uneven weight distribution. Heavy shelves and drawers inside can also shift, damaging the interior finish, if they are not secured.
Vibration is another risk factor. When driving on uneven roads, the body may become deformed if the support point is chosen incorrectly. This is especially true for models with a system No Frost, where the plastic air ducts inside the chamber can burst if the case is skewed.
Preparing the device for moving
Before putting the refrigerator on its side, it is necessary to carry out thorough preparation. The first step is always defrosting. Even if you have a model with No Frost, condensation or ice could form inside in hard-to-reach places. The device must be completely dry so that water does not get on the electrical contacts.
Next, all moving elements should be secured. The doors must be tightly closed and wrapped with construction tape or special belts so that they do not swing open during the journey. It is better to remove the internal shelves separately or secure them with foam and cardboard to prevent them from moving.
- 📦 Be sure to remove all products, containers and removable trays from the door.
- 🔌 Unplug the power cord, roll it up and secure it to the back wall so that it does not dangle.
- 🧊 Make sure the inside is dry - wipe the cameras with a dry rag.
It is also important to check the condition of the transport bolts, if they are still intact. Although they are more commonly used for washing machines, fixing the compressor is critical for refrigerators. In some older models LG special brackets are provided for this, which must be tightened before transportation.
☑️ Preparation for transportation
Which side to place it on: technical nuances
There is a widespread belief that you can only place the refrigerator on one specific side. For most models LG the rule is: the unit should be laid on its side, opposite the side where the tubes exit the compressor. Typically, the tubes are directed upward when the refrigerator is standing, so when laid on its side, they should be on top.
If you place the device on its side where the tubes are, they may break off from the compressor or become deformed under the weight of the case. Repair in this case will require calling a technician and vacuuming the system, which is expensive and time-consuming. Look at the back wall: if the tubes are visible, choose the side without them.
⚠️ Attention: Never place the refrigerator on the door or on the back wall (radiator grille). This is guaranteed to lead to breakdown.
In modern inverter models, the compressor can be fixed more rigidly, but the risk of damage to the thermal insulation and internal plastic elements when placed on the back wall remains. Lateral transportation is the least risky option of all horizontal ones.
What to do if the tubes are not visible?
If the compressor structure is hidden by a casing and it is not visible where the tubes go, focus on the total weight. Usually the side with the motor is heavier. Try to place it on the opposite, lighter side, placing soft material under the bottom.
The process of packaging and fixation in transport
High-quality packaging is the key to successful transportation. The ideal option is to use a factory box with foam inserts. If the box doesn't survive, use heavy cardboard, bubble wrap, and blankets. The body LG often has a glossy finish, which is easily scratched by seat belts.
When loading into a car, make sure that the surface is smooth. Shock-absorbing materials must be laid between the refrigerator body and the body floor. Do not allow direct contact of metal with metal scrap of the car.
| Material | Function | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Factory foam | Corner cushioning | Must be used |
| Stretch film | Fixing doors | Wrap in 3-4 layers |
| Cardboard | Scratch protection | Wrap the entire body |
| Belts | Fixation in the body | Do not overtighten |
The device must be secured in the body so that it cannot move when turning or braking. Use straps that fit around the body but do not compress it excessively. If you are transporting it on the roof of a passenger car, make sure that the fastening is secure, since the refrigerator has a high windage.
Rules for unloading and installation
After delivering the unit to its destination, do not rush to turn it on. First you need to carefully move it to a vertical position. This should be done smoothly, without jerking. Sharp verticalization can cause oil backflow into the compressor.
Install the refrigerator on a flat surface. Use a building level to check levelness. The legs of the refrigerator LG adjustable - twist them so that the doors close by themselves with a slight push (slight tilt back).
Remove the packaging, remove all tape and transport locks. Check the integrity of the case after moving. If you notice dents on the rear radiator grille, it is better to call a technician for diagnostics before turning it on.
Settling time before turning on
The most critical stage is the waiting time before the first start. Oil that enters the system needs time to drain back into the compressor crankcase under the influence of gravity. If you neglect this rule, the probability of breakdown is more than 80%.
Settling time depends on several factors: ambient temperature, duration of transportation in a horizontal position and compressor model. For inverter motors LG Linear Inverter the requirements may be more stringent due to the complex design of the suspension.
- ❄️ In winter (at temperatures below 0°C), the settling time increases to 4-6 hours.
- ☀️ In summer, 2-3 hours are enough in a warm room.
- 🚛 If the transportation was long and with strong shaking, leave the device for 6-8 hours.
Do not try to speed up the process by heating the compressor with a hair dryer or placing the device near the battery. Sudden temperature changes can damage plastic and seals. Let the equipment come into balance naturally.
Common mistakes
Many users make mistakes that negate all precautions. For example, trying to turn on the refrigerator immediately to “check if it works.” This cannot be done. Even if it hummed, the oil might not return, and after a few hours of operation the compressor would jam.
Another mistake is transportation without fixing the shelves. Even if you remove the glass shelves, the plastic runners may crack. It is better to glue all joints with masking tape.
⚠️ Attention: Technical regulations and equipment design may change. Before transporting a specific model, check the official user manual on the manufacturer’s website, since the rules may differ for some industrial series.
It is also a mistake to believe that if the refrigerator arrived lying down and turned on, then everything went well. Damage may appear after a month or six months in the form of reduced cooling efficiency or increased noise. Therefore, compliance with the rules is an investment in a long service life.
Is it possible to transport an LG refrigerator lying down if it is old?
Old models with an open rear grille and heavy compressors tolerate transportation lying down worse than modern ones. Their tube soldering is more likely to fail. For old equipment, the settling time should be increased to 8-10 hours, and transported only as a last resort.
What to do if, after turning on, the refrigerator does not freeze?
If, after proper settling, the refrigerator hums, but there is no cold, the capillary tube may be clogged with oil or a freon leak. In this case, you need to turn off the device and call a specialist for diagnostics. It is prohibited to open the circuit yourself.
Does the warranty affect transportation in a horizontal position?
Officially, service centers LG recommend transportation only in a vertical position. If, when applying for a warranty, the technician finds traces of oil in the evaporator due to improper transportation, repairs may be refused, citing violation of operating conditions.
Do you need to remove the doors during transportation?
It is not necessary to remove the doors if you have secured them securely with tape. However, if the door opening is narrow, removing the doors will make skidding easier. You need to remove it carefully, unscrewing the hinges and supporting the door so as not to damage the mounting holes.